Canada’s fall season begins with some welcome news for seniors: another round of Old Age Security (OAS) payments is about to land, and the September 2025 deposit could be worth as much as $1,900 when combined with other benefits. If you’re 65 or older, here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, payment amounts, key dates, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.
What Is Old Age Security (OAS) in Canada?
Old Age Security (OAS) is one of Canada’s main public pension programs, alongside the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). Managed by Service Canada, it provides monthly income to Canadians aged 65 and older, helping retirees manage day-to-day living costs and rising inflation.
Unlike CPP, you don’t need to have worked or contributed to qualify for OAS. Most Canadians who meet the residency requirements are automatically enrolled and receive a notification letter before their first payment.
OAS isn’t just a base pension — there are also income-tested top-ups, including:
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) – Extra support for low-income seniors.
- Allowance – For those aged 60–64 whose spouse or partner receives GIS.
- Allowance for the Survivor – For widowed individuals aged 60–64.
Who Is Eligible for OAS in September 2025?
Eligibility for OAS is based on age, income, and residency, not employment history. To receive the September 2025 payment, you must:
- Be 65 or older.
- Have a 2024 net world income below:
- $148,541 if you’re 65–74
- $154,196 if you’re 75 or older
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident at the time your application is approved.
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since turning 18.
Living Abroad?
You may still qualify if you were a Canadian citizen or legal resident when you left and have lived in Canada for at least 20 years as an adult.
Extra Benefits: GIS and the Allowance
If your income is low, you might be eligible for additional monthly support:
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
Available to OAS recipients living in Canada. Income limits for September 2025:
- Single, widowed or divorced: under $22,272
- With a spouse/partner receiving full OAS: combined income under $29,424
- With a partner receiving the Allowance: combined income under $41,184
- With a partner not receiving OAS or the Allowance: combined income under $53,376
Allowance
For those aged 60–64 whose spouse or partner receives GIS. Requirements:
- Household income under $41,184
- Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since age 18
Allowance for the Survivor
For widowed individuals aged 60–64:
- Income must be under $29,976
- Must not have remarried or entered a new common-law relationship
- Same residency rules as the regular Allowance
How to Apply for OAS and Related Benefits
Most Canadians do not need to apply for basic OAS or GIS. Service Canada typically sends a letter around age 64 confirming your eligibility and the date of your first payment.
However, you must apply if you:
- Haven’t received a notification letter.
- Want to delay your OAS to increase your monthly payment (up to age 70).
- Are applying for the Allowance or Allowance for the Survivor.
Ways to Apply
- Online: Through your My Service Canada Account (application must be completed in one session).
- By mail or in person: Download the forms from Service Canada’s website and submit them with certified documents.
September 2025 OAS Payment Amounts
OAS rates are adjusted quarterly for inflation (January, April, July, and October). The most recent update took effect in July 2025, and these rates still apply for September:
- OAS Pension:
- Ages 65–74: up to $734.95 per month
- Ages 75+: up to $808.45 per month (includes a 10% increase starting the month after turning 75)
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS):
- Single or spouse not receiving OAS/Allowance: up to $1,097.75
- With spouse/partner receiving OAS/Allowance: up to $660.78
- Allowance: up to $1,395.73
- Allowance for the Survivor: up to $1,663.81
At the maximum combined level, eligible seniors could receive close to $1,900 this month. Actual amounts depend on income and marital status.
Is OAS Taxable?
Yes, OAS is taxable income. You’ll receive a T4A(OAS) slip each year (or an NR4 slip if you live outside Canada).
Service Canada doesn’t automatically withhold tax unless you request it. To avoid a surprise tax bill, you can:
- Ask Service Canada to deduct tax through My Service Canada Account, or
- Submit the paper request form.
OAS Payment Dates for the Rest of 2025
The September 2025 OAS deposit will be issued on Thursday, September 25. Here are the remaining payment dates for this year:
- Wednesday, October 29
- Wednesday, November 26
- Monday, December 22
Payments usually arrive by direct deposit on the scheduled date. If you receive a cheque by mail, allow extra time for delivery.
Key Takeaway
Canadian seniors can look forward to a boosted OAS payment in September 2025, with the potential to receive up to $1,900 when combining OAS, GIS and Allowance benefits. Whether you’re already enrolled or planning to apply, knowing the eligibility rules, updated rates and exact payment dates will help you make the most of these federal supports this fall.